When we first covered Santa Teresa in 2012, we called it a newcomer. It isn't anymore. The fishing and farming village has become one of the busiest surf towns in the country, with surf camps, yoga studios and everything from hostels to high-end villas. The beach itself is still wide and wild.
What it's like
Santa Teresa sits on the Pacific side of the southern Nicoya Peninsula, about 150 km west of San José. The beach runs for kilometers, with rocky points breaking it up and the neighboring beaches of Mal País to the south and Playa Hermosa to the north. Sunsets over the water are a daily event, and people gather on the sand to watch. For local listings of places to stay, eat and surf, the Santa Teresa Guide is worth a look before you book.
The waves are the main draw. There are breaks for beginners on smaller days and more powerful peaks for experienced surfers, and there are surf camps and schools all over town. That same surf makes swimming tricky: currents can be strong, and there are rocks at the points. Swim only where it's calm and ask a surf school or your hotel about conditions.
The town
The town strings along the road behind the beach, with restaurants, cafes, shops, surf camps and yoga studios, and places to stay at every budget. Car and ATV rentals are easy to find, and buses link Santa Teresa with Mal País, Cóbano and Montezuma, with direct buses as far as San José.
Getting there
There are three main options from San José:
- By car and ferry: Drive to Puntarenas, take the ferry to Paquera (about 1 hour 15 minutes, with tickets sold online), then drive about 1 hour 15 minutes to Santa Teresa. The last stretch is rough, and a 4x4 or a car with good clearance is the safer choice.
- By shuttle or bus: Shared minibuses and buses take around 6 hours. A private transfer takes about 4.5 hours.
- By air: Fly to Tambor, then drive about 45 minutes.
From Guanacaste, you can drive down the length of the peninsula instead of taking the ferry. Check road and river conditions in the rainy season.
Where to stay and what to do nearby
Horizon Yoga Hotel is on the hill above Santa Teresa and is profiled on this site. For a forest hike, the Cabo Blanco reserve is about 7 km away, and Montezuma and its waterfalls are a short drive. Our surfing guide explains how Santa Teresa compares with Costa Rica's other surf towns, and the Nicoya Peninsula guide helps you plan the area.
Frequently asked questions
Is Santa Teresa good for beginner surfers?
Yes, on the right days and with a lesson. Surf schools pick spots and times to suit beginners.
Is it safe to swim at Santa Teresa?
It can be rough, with currents and rocks. Ask locally, swim near other people, and stay out on big days.
Do I need a 4x4 to get to Santa Teresa?
The roads into the area are winding and uneven. A 4x4 or high-clearance car is recommended, especially in the rainy season.
What's the quickest way from San José?
A domestic flight to Tambor, then about 45 minutes by car.
